The N.C. Department of Transportation's roots lie in the State Highway Commission, formed in 1915.
In 1941, the N.C. General Assembly created the Department of Motor Vehicles, consolidating services previously provided by the Secretary of State and the Department of Revenue.
The Executive Organization Act of 1971 then combined the State Highway Commission and the Department of Motor Vehicles to form the N.C. Department of Transportation and Highway Safety.
In 1979, "Highway Safety" was dropped from the department's name when the Highway Patrol Division transferred to the newly created Department of Crime Control and Public Safety.
Today, NCDOT has evolved into a multimodal agency committed to supporting the travelers, economy and overall well-being of North Carolina by providing a comprehensive statewide transportation system that encompasses all forms of travel.
The department's vision, mission and goals guide its daily operations to ensure its wide range of projects and services meet the state's growing transportation needs.
Our Vision
NCDOT: A global leader in providing innovative transportation solutions
Our Mission
Connecting people, products and places safely and efficiently with customer focus, accountability and environmental sensitivity to enhance the economy and vitality of North Carolina
Our Priorities
- Transportation Safety - Create a safer transportation system in North Carolina
- Workforce Safety and Readiness - Recruit and retain a thriving workforce to meet North Carolina’s transportation needs
- Program Delivery - Award new projects, complete construction, and deliver daily services across North Carolina
- System Reliability - Deliver a reliable and accessible transportation system in North Carolina
- Infrastructure Health - Maintain a world-class transportation system and restore access quickly after disasters like Hurricane Helene
- Digital Modernization - Create a future-ready technology infrastructure and data ecosystem for DOH and Modes
Our Values
Six core values guide the N.C. Department of Transportation in its everyday decision-making. Adhering or not adhering to them directly affects the Department's achievements and success.
Safety - We are dedicated to providing a safe transportation network and work environment.
Customer Service - We serve our customers in a respectful, professional and timely manner.
Integrity - We earn and maintain trust through accountability, transparency and data-driven decisions.
Quality - We pursue excellence in delivering our projects, programs, services and initiatives.
Teamwork - We work together using our diverse strengths and skills, collaborating to solve problems and serve our communities.
Innovation - We promote the development and use of new and better solutions.